Syllabus:

GS3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.

Context: The Gujarat Forest Department recently conducted 16th Lion Population census (2025) which showed rise in Asiatic Lion Population from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025.

Key highlight of the census:

• This was the first full-fledged Lion Census conducted by the Gujarat government since 2015.

• Spanning a vast 35,000 sq km area across 58 talukas in 11 districts, the four-day census held from May 10 to 13 saw the participation of 3,254 personnel.

• The latest count includes 196 males, 330 females, along with 140 sub-adults and 225 cubs.

• Though the maximum number of lions – 394 – have been observed in the Gir National Park and Paniya Wildlife Sanctuary, considered the ‘source’ population, the latest survey underlines the continuing trend of lions expanding into more parts of Gujarat.

• The rise is attributed to conservation initiatives under ‘Project Lion’, highlighting their role in ensuring both the protection and conservation of Asiatic lions in Gujarat.

• The lion population survey was conducted across 35,000 sq. km in 11 districts using modern technology (Digital cameras and camera traps) and the block count method.

• The 11 districts are Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Bhavnagar, Rajkot, Morbi, Surendranagar, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar, Amreli, Porbandar and Botad.

• The State Government's Forest Department conducts lion population estimation every five years using the Direct Beat Verification (Block Count method).

• Advanced technologies such as GIS mapping, camera traps, and digital applications were utilised to enhance accuracy in tracking and data collection.

• According to Gujarat government records, the first lion census was conducted by the Nawab of Junagadh in 1936.

• In 1965, the Gir forest was declared a sanctuary, and since then, the Gujarat Forest Department has been regularly conducting lion censuses every five years.

 Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica)

• The Asiatic lion, is a subspecies of lion found primarily in the Gir Forest and surrounding areas of Gujarat, India.

• They are characterized by a distinctive, darker mane and a dewlap, a fold of skin on the underside of their neck. 

• Asiatic lions are slightly smaller than African lions. Adult males weigh 160 to 190 kg, while females weigh 110 to 120 kg. 

• Asiatic Lion, being listed in Schedule-I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, has been accorded the highest degree of protection.

• The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) as Endangered upgraded from ‘Critically Endangered’ category in 2008. 

• The Asiatic lion is listed in CITES Appendix I, meaning trade in this species is highly restricted and regulated.

• Every year August 10th is celebrated as World Lion Day.

PROJECT ASIATIC LION

• It was announced on August 15, 2020, 'Project Lion' is a pivotal initiative aimed at securing the future of Asiatic lions through comprehensive, long-term conservation efforts. 

• The Project Lion is being implemented in the Gir landscape in Gujarat. 

• The Project envisages landscape ecology-based conservation of the Asiatic Lion in Gujarat by integrating conservation and eco-development. 

• The Project Lion document titled ‘Lion @ 47: Vision for Amrutkal’ has been prepared with the following objectives:

• To secure & restore lions’ habitats for managing its growing population
• Scale up livelihood generation and participation of local communities
• Become a global hub of knowledge on big cat disease diagnostics and treatment
• Inclusive biodiversity conservation through project lion initiative.

The International Big Cats Alliance 

• It was launched in April 2023, which reinforces the global commitment to conserving big cats, including lions. 

• This alliance aims to foster international cooperation among 97 range countries, facilitating the sharing of knowledge and resources to protect these majestic animals.